Cameron Miranda
International law is the study of law in a global context, focusing on interstate agreements, guidelines, and frameworks in areas such as diplomacy, human rights law, and economic relations. It is a diverse and competitive field that examines global issues and concerns, such as human rights, international crime, and world trade. International law can be studied at various levels, including bachelor's, master's, and PhD, and is offered by many universities worldwide. Some universities also offer special programs, scholarships, or concentrations in international law, and students can expect to take classes in legal methods, legal systems, and law history. Studying international law can lead to various career paths, including government positions, international organizations, and private law firms dealing with international transactions.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Popularity | Over 300 Bachelor's and 700 Master's degrees available |
| Career opportunities | Lawyer, Diplomat, Policy advisor, Professor, Government worker, Researcher, Lecturer, Arbitrator |
| Specialisations | International relations, Development, Human rights, Environment, International business law, International commercial law, Corporate governance, Finance |
| Salary | Median average of $122,960, with a 4% growth rate |
| Job prospects | Competitive, requiring internships and additional language skills |
| Study options | Undergraduate and graduate programs, with study abroad opportunities |
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What You'll Learn
International Law specialisms
International law is a rapidly evolving field that has expanded beyond the classical questions of war, peace, and diplomacy. It now encompasses a wide range of subjects, including human rights, economic and trade issues, environmental preservation, and space law. The study of international law can be broadly categorised into two main branches: public international law and private international law.
Public International Law
Public international law deals with the relationships between nations and sets forth mandates for those nations to follow. It covers a broad range of topics, including:
- Human rights law: This area of international law focuses on the protection and enforcement of human rights at both the international and regional levels. For example, the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, established in 1993, supervises Charter-based and treaty-based procedures to protect human rights.
- Environmental law: Non-state actors, such as non-governmental organisations, have played a significant role in the development of environmental law within the framework of international law. Concepts like sustainable development and environmental protection have gained prominence due to the efforts of these non-state actors.
- Trade and investment law: International law governs trade relations between nations, including issues such as military defence, environmental conservation, and economic and trade agreements. International organisations like the World Trade Organization play a crucial role in overseeing these issues.
- International litigation and arbitration: With the increasing transnational regulation of persons, capital, markets, and power, international litigation and arbitration have become important specialisms. This area of international law deals with disputes between nations or international organisations.
Private International Law
Private international law, also known as conflict of laws, deals with conflicts between private actors or entities in situations where the laws of more than one nation may apply. It includes specialisms such as:
- Cross-border transactions: This area focuses on specific types of cross-border transactions, such as project finance, sovereign debt offerings, and international business transactions.
- Comparative and foreign law: These courses involve studying the foreign law of a particular jurisdiction, region, or religion, or comparing international and foreign rules with respect to a specific topic, such as antitrust or intellectual property law.
- International business arbitration: Arbitration is a form of dispute resolution that allows private entities to resolve conflicts without going through the national courts of a particular state.
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International Law career paths
International law is a diverse and dynamic field that offers a range of career paths for aspiring professionals. It encompasses both public international law, which governs relations between nation states, and private international law, which deals with conflicts of law across borders. Here are some common career paths for those interested in international law:
Public International Lawyer
To become a public international lawyer, one typically needs a legal degree and a Masters-level qualification, such as an LLM, in a relevant area of international law. Relevant international experience, such as internships with intergovernmental organisations or embassies, is also highly valued. Public international lawyers often work within government bodies, representing their nation-state in international negotiations and formulating foreign policy. They may also work for international organisations like the United Nations, World Trade Organization, or International Criminal Court, addressing global issues such as human rights, environmental protection, and conflict resolution.
Private International Lawyer
Private international lawyers typically work within the legal departments of multinational corporations or private firms, handling cross-border transactions, international arbitration, and compliance with global regulations. They advise multinational corporations on expanding their operations internationally while ensuring compliance with international trade laws and regulations. Private practice lawyers also represent clients in international disputes, initiate legal actions on their behalf, and draft international contracts.
Academia and Research
International law graduates may also pursue careers in academia, teaching international law at universities, and conducting research on global legal issues. Academics contribute to the advancement of knowledge in international law and policy, often specialising in areas such as human rights, environmental law, or international trade law.
Legal Assistant/Project Officer
Those interested in international law can also explore careers as legal assistants or project officers within intergovernmental organisations, NGOs, or consulting companies. These roles often involve a wide range of responsibilities, including awareness campaigns, research, and direct collaboration with beneficiaries or clients. Project officers may also take on leadership roles within global organisations, working towards the welfare of people worldwide.
The field of international law is diverse and rewarding, allowing professionals to address pressing global challenges and contribute to international justice and development. While qualifications and experience are essential, aspiring professionals should also develop strong interpersonal skills, cultural competence, and proficiency in multiple languages to enhance their careers in this competitive field.
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International Law salaries
International law is a very popular discipline, with over 300 Bachelor's and 700 Master's degrees available. The field is competitive, and graduates may find it challenging to secure a job immediately after graduation. However, those with a Master's degree in International Law will have a wide range of career opportunities.
International lawyers in the United States can expect different salaries depending on their location. The average annual salary for an international lawyer in the US is around $100,626, with the lowest being $47,000 and the highest being $342,276. The salary range is typically between $79,000 (25th percentile) and $103,000 (75th percentile). The average salary is influenced by factors such as skill level, location, and years of experience. Certain cities, such as San Jose, AK, offer salaries higher than the national average, providing opportunities for economic advancement.
The District of Columbia, California, Massachusetts, Washington, and New Jersey are the top five states with higher salaries for international lawyers. The salary range for international lawyer jobs in the US is from $132,191 to $164,333, with the highest being $163,726 and the lowest being $132,191.
International law graduates can pursue various career paths, including working closely with NGOs and international organizations. While a law degree is not always necessary for such positions, it can be advantageous. Some graduates may choose to pursue academia and become lecturers or professors, while others may work for their home country's government in different ministries or embassies.
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International Law study destinations
International law is a subject that can be studied at a variety of levels, including bachelor's, master's, postgraduate certificate, postgraduate diploma, and PhD. It is a diverse and exciting area of law that focuses on the study of law in a global context, covering areas such as human rights law, diplomacy, economic relations, and war. Studying international law can lead to a wide range of career opportunities in law, business, charities, and government globally.
When considering study destinations for international law, there are several factors to take into account, such as the duration of the course, tuition fees, living expenses, entry requirements, and the availability of specific programs. Here are some popular destinations for studying international law:
United Kingdom
The UK is a top destination for studying law, boasting some of the world's leading universities. The LLM in International Law is one of the oldest and most popular courses in London, attracting students from diverse backgrounds. The UK also offers the advantage of a shorter duration for law school, and graduates can choose to stay and gain a head start in their career or return to their home country with a prestigious degree.
United States of America
The USA is another popular choice for international law students, with numerous renowned law schools. The average tuition fee for international law students in the USA ranges from $25,000 to $70,000 per year, with living expenses estimated at around $12,000 annually. Universities like the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School offer study abroad opportunities at foreign law schools, including in Hong Kong and Tokyo, Japan.
Australia
Australia is an attractive destination for international law students due to its warm atmosphere and relatively affordable standard of living. The entry requirements for Australian law schools are also considered conducive to international students. Leading universities include the University of Melbourne, the Sydney School of Law, the University of New Wales, and the Australian National University Law College. International students can expect to pay between $20,575 and $44,500 in tuition fees for a law degree in Australia, with living expenses ranging from $20,000 to $27,000 per year.
Canada
Canada is renowned for its high quality of life and is home to some of the world's foremost universities, making it a top choice for international law students. Canadian universities offer world-class education, modern facilities, and an endless list of career opportunities for law graduates. Notable universities include the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia.
These are just a few examples of popular study destinations for international law, and it is important to research and consider various factors when making your decision.
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International Law admissions advice
International law is a popular discipline, with over 300 Bachelor's and 700 Master's degrees available. International law degree programs often offer placements with international companies or run student exchanges with other programs around the world. This can be a significant competitive advantage, as can language skills or knowledge of other cultures.
International law is a challenging field, and it is competitive. Many U.S. law schools provide offerings in international law, and some have career services staff dedicated to foreign and international legal practice. If you are considering applying to a U.S. law school, strong academics and unique experiences can help applicants stand out. It may also be worth getting involved with an international law journal or assisting a professor with international law research.
If you are considering a career in international law, it is worth noting that there are relatively few jobs in this area. International law is largely theoretical and academic, with only a few "cases" heard before international judicial bodies each year. Most people working in this area are politicians, high-level diplomats, professors, government workers, or lawyers at specialized international law practices.
If you are keen to pursue a career in international law, it is worth gaining initial professional experience after graduating with a Bachelor's of Law (LL.B.). A Master's degree in International Law will also help you to stand out.
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Frequently asked questions
You can study international law at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. A Bachelor's of Law (LL.B.) is a prerequisite for a Master's in International Law, which is the standard path to becoming an international lawyer.
International law graduates can pursue careers in academia, government, international organisations, non-profit groups, private law firms, and more. The degree also provides excellent job prospects, a high earning potential, and the opportunity to work abroad.
International law is a challenging yet rewarding field that offers a unique blend of legal, analytical, and global outlook skills. It provides a competitive advantage, especially with language abilities and cultural insights, making it a compelling career choice for those with international roots or multilingual abilities.
